Brussels – Euro zone households continued to expand their savings in the second quarter of 2025, defying expectations of a decline that would spur private consumption and bolster growth in light of export challenges, according to Eurostat data, reports 24brussels.

In 2024, the household saving rate in the euro area remained relatively consistent, hovering between 15.2% and 15.3%. Specifically, the rate registered at 15.2% in the fourth quarter of 2024 and was revised upwards to 15.3% for the third quarter of 2024, remaining steady in the last quarter.

Why are euro zone households still saving more than expected?

Eurostat indicated that the household savings rate climbed to 15.4% in the second quarter, up from 15.2% in the previous three months, significantly exceeding the 12% to 13% range typical of pre-pandemic periods.

Households have boosted their savings as they seek to rebuild wealth lost during the inflation surge that followed the pandemic, while also establishing financial buffers in response to negative news regarding tariffs, competitive weaknesses, and sluggish economic growth. Notably, the nation’s investment rate has stabilized at 9% after a period of decline over the past year.

Could high savings rates slow the euro zone economic recovery?

Economists have anticipated a reversal in savings trends for some time, given that real wages are recovering from the inflation spike and unemployment rates remain at near-historic lows. The European Central Bank (ECB) forecasts a decrease in the savings rate to 14.7% this year, with further declines projected in the upcoming years.

This increase in the savings rate contrasts sharply with the situation in the United States, where savings have steadily declined, dipping below 5% in August. While economists predict that household spending will aid growth in the latter half of the year due to expected declines in net exports, retail trade growth in August was only 1.0% year over year, suggesting continued caution among households.

Why is the profit share of euro zone firms falling?

Eurostat has also reported a consistent decrease in the profit share of euro zone firms this quarter, marking an ongoing trend since early 2023. This decline indicates decreasing profitability as wage growth surpasses value added, raising concerns regarding economic growth potential.

In 2023, the profit share for euro area companies was approximately 40.7%, slightly lower than previous periods, with this trend persisting into 2025. For the first quarter of 2025, the profit share was about 38.8%, reflecting the impact of rising wages outpacing business value added growth, pointing toward potential challenges for economic expansion and corporate profitability within the euro zone.